learning songs by tab vs ear

[ics1974]

Hi Desi,

I have read your book and watched all your DVD's so now I feel pretty comfortable with theory.
I want to learn more songs. A few people have told me not to rely on tabs and I should learn to play by ear. I have only learned songs in the past by tab and I have never tried by ear. Now that I know all the theory you have taught me I can look at the tabs for songs and try to understand how the songs fit into the theory. This works for me well.
But now I am worried that I am not developing my ear by relying on tab. What is your opinion about using tab to learn songs. Are you cheating yourself from developing your ear?
Do you learn songs by ear or tab?
Thanks

[DesiSerna]

I have learned over the years by both using tab and my ear. Most musicians rely on some form of notation, some completely on notation, so tab certainly isn't cheating. If you want to try using your ear go for it. It definitely can help your development. And you might enjoy the challenge. If you get stuck on something, consult the tab.

The important part is to develop as a player. It doesn't matter how you get there, as long as you get there.